How to Clean Infrared Sauna: Safe & Simple Cleaning Guide

You bought an infrared sauna so you could unwind, sweat out stress, and feel your best. But if you ever step inside and notice a weird smell or sticky bench, it ruins the mood fast.

With over 10 years of hands-on experience testing saunas and researching the safest cleaning methods, I’m here to guide you through simple, proven steps that protect your wood and delicate infrared heaters—so you can keep your sauna fresh and safe every time.

Here’s how to get started right:

• Unplug the sauna and give it 30–60 minutes to cool down.
• Slip on rubber gloves and safety glasses before you get started.
• Open a window or vent if you’ve got one, so your space stays fresh and dry.

Never use bleach, ammonia, varnish, paint, abrasive scrubs, high-pressure hoses, or steam cleaners. Water, strong chemicals, and rough pads damage wood, make panels less effective, and can even cause electrical problems. Spraying water right on the infrared emitters or near controls is always a no-go.

Following these steps helps you clean confidently—without risking your investment or your sauna’s performance.

Why Cleaning Matters

Imagine sliding onto a damp, grimy bench—instantly the calm fades. A tidy sauna does more than look nice:

• Health: Regular cleaning keeps sweat, germs, and mold from building up. That means the air stays fresh and safe for your lungs—especially if you use your sauna a lot.
• Longevity: Wiping away dirt and moisture protects wood benches and walls from stains, warping, and cracks. Your sauna lasts longer and keeps looking great.
• Performance: A clean sauna heats up faster, smells fresh, and always feels inviting. Leftover grime or sweat hurts how well it runs and how you feel inside.

Neglecting these habits can make your sauna stuffy, full of bacteria, or even damage the finish. Consistent care keeps the whole experience enjoyable, every time.

To learn more about the proven health benefits of infrared sauna use and its impact on wellness, read my article on the infrared sauna benefits.

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Essential Supplies & What to AVOID

Starting with the right supplies keeps you from accidentally damaging anything, and it makes each clean go smoother. Here’s your quick shopping list:

What You’ll Need

• Microfiber cloths (for wood, glass, and electronics)
• Soft bristle brushes (nylon or natural) for scrubbing
• Mild dish soap or gentle sauna-safe wood cleaner
• White vinegar and hydrogen peroxide (for disinfecting and deodorizing)
• Baking soda (for stain removal and freshening)
• Sauna-safe wood oil (paraffin or brand-recommended)
• Clean towels (for drying surfaces and sitting on benches)
• Small vacuum or handheld broom for loose dirt

What to Avoid

• Bleach, ammonia, any harsh chemicals
• Varnish, paint, or sealants not specifically made for sauna wood
• Abrasive pads (steel wool, scouring powder)
• High-pressure cleaners, steamers, or hoses
• Pouring water directly on or near infrared panels
• Strong air fresheners or chemical sprays—these can linger and cause breathing issues

Why Skip Harsh Stuff?

Strong chemicals and too much moisture soak into the wood, break down the grain, and can leave the heater panels less effective (or even short them out). Using the wrong products voids many sauna warranties and hurts air quality, too. Safer ingredients keep your sauna healthy and long-lasting.

If you want to follow a natural cleaning approach recommended by experts, check out natural sauna cleaning advice from Finnmark Sauna.

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Daily Cleaning Routine (Post-Session)

Right after your sweat session, spend just a minute to keep grime at bay:

• Use a damp microfiber cloth to gently wipe benches, walls, and the floor.
• Go over the same spots with a dry cloth to soak up any leftover moisture.
• Sweep or vacuum up hair, dust, and other debris.
• Open the sauna door or vent for 10–15 minutes to help fresh air circulate and keep mold away.
• Hang up your towels or mats so they dry completely outside the sauna.

These quick steps stop sweat, oils, and dirt from settling in—saving you time on deeper scrubs later.

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Weekly Maintenance Tasks

Once a week, dig a little deeper to keep your sauna shining:

• Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water. Use this as your cleaning solution.
• Soak a cloth or soft brush in the mixture and gently scrub benches, walls, backrests, and the floor.
• Rinse with a clean, damp cloth to get rid of any residue, then dry everything right away.
• Clean glass doors with a gentle glass cleaner (never anything abrasive).
• Vacuum or sweep under benches and around vent covers.
• Leave the door open for an hour to dry out every corner.

This vinegar wash kills bacteria and stops stains before they set, giving you a fresh, odor-free space every week.

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Monthly Deep Clean Process

Give your sauna a thorough scrub once a month to tackle buildup:

• Make a paste with 2 parts baking soda to 1 part water and apply it to sweat stains or stubborn marks.
• Let the paste sit for 10 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush along the wood’s grain.
• Wipe away the paste with a damp cloth and dry the wood right after.
• Dust the tops and frames of infrared panels and control panels with a microfiber cloth—don’t use any liquids here.
• Check heater stones (if used in your sauna)—rinse with plain water and air dry. Never use soap or cleaners on stones.

These routines stop dirt and bacteria before they become a problem and make sure your sauna always feels clean, fresh, and comfortable for every use.

To see manufacturer-specific advice on sauna cleaning and care, read Sunlighten Infrared Sauna cleaning and care tips.

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Component-Specific Cleaning

Keeping each part of your infrared sauna clean helps everything work better and last longer. Here’s how to care for the main components:

Heaters (Carbon or Ceramic)

Always unplug the sauna first. Use a dry microfiber cloth to dust heater frames gently. If needed, wipe with a slightly damp cloth, but never spray water or cleaning liquids directly onto heaters or inside panel seams. Carbon heaters are a bit sturdier, but ceramic heaters can chip or crack if scrubbed too hard, so be extra gentle there.

Floor

Sweep or vacuum loose dirt and dust regularly. For a deeper clean, mop the floor with a mild soap solution. Use a soft brush to reach grooves or textured areas, making sure not to soak the wood. Quickly dry the floor afterward to avoid moisture buildup.

Doors & Vents

Clean door handles, hinges, and vent covers with a cloth dipped in a diluted vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water). This helps remove dirt and stops rust from forming on metal parts. Wipe dry after cleaning.

Accessories (cushions, mats, towels)

Remove cushions, mats, or any fabric items and wash them separately in the gentle cycle of your washing machine. Let them air dry fully before putting them back in the sauna.

By keeping each part clean and dry, you protect your sauna’s materials and keep every session smelling fresh and feeling comfortable.

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Brand & Wood-Type Notes

Choosing the right wood for your infrared sauna matters because it affects odor, maintenance, and how long your sauna lasts. Two popular woods are cedar and hemlock, each with its own perks.

Cedar

• Has a warm, reddish color and a natural, pleasant aroma when heated.
• The scent can help mask odors inside the sauna.
• Contains natural oils that resist moisture, decay, and insects, which means it needs less sealing and lasts long.
• However, cedar can sometimes bleed resin, which might leave sticky spots that need extra cleaning.

Hemlock

• Has a light, clean look with a uniform texture, giving a modern feel.
• It’s low in resin and scent-free, which is great for people sensitive to smells.
• Hemlock is strong and resists warping but is less naturally moisture-resistant than cedar, so it may need more upkeep, like occasional sealing.
• Sometimes it can splinter, so sanding may be needed from time to time.

By understanding these wood types, you can clean and care for your sauna properly, keeping it comfortable and long-lasting.

Related:
How To Clean Sauna Wood
Sauna Staining Guide

Always Check Your Sauna Brand’s Care Instructions

Some manufacturers recommend specific cleaners or oils that work best for their wood and heaters. Following their advice helps keep warranties valid and your sauna in great shape.

Heater Type Notes

Carbon heaters handle light moist cloths better than ceramic heaters, which require gentler care to avoid chipping.

Related: Carbon vs Ceramic Heater

Troubleshooting & Advanced Maintenance

Keeping your sauna spotless isn’t just about wiping up sweat. Sometimes, unexpected problems show up—like musty smells, stubborn spots, or tech that won’t cooperate. Here’s how to handle the most common headaches:

Mold & Mildew

• Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
• Lightly spritz any affected wood, then scrub gently with a soft brush or clean cloth.
• Dry the area with a fresh towel and leave the sauna door open until everything is bone dry. Good airflow is the secret to stopping mold for good.

Persistent Odors

• If your sauna smells funky even after cleaning, place an open box or bowl of baking soda inside overnight. Baking soda absorbs unwanted odors naturally.
• For deep smells that stick, repeat after each use until it clears up.

Stubborn Stains

• For sweat stains or spots that won’t come off, grab fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit or higher).
• Always sand along the wood’s grain, never across it—this keeps the finish looking even.
• Wipe off any dust and apply a sauna-safe wood oil to re-moisturize the spot.

Control Panel Issues

• Dust electronic panels gently using only a dry microfiber cloth; never spray liquids nearby.
• If controls or displays stop working, or if the sauna doesn’t start, don’t try to take it apart. Contact a professional or your sauna’s manufacturer support for safe repairs.

Long-Lasting Care

• Inspect vents, hinges, and panel corners every few months for dust buildup or rust.
• Lubricate squeaky hinges with sauna-safe oil.
• Look for any signs of wood warping, loose connections, or flickering heaters—the sooner you catch a problem, the easier and cheaper it is to fix.

These simple fixes keep your infrared sauna smelling fresh, looking great, and working like new. Stay proactive and small issues will never turn into big ones. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to get professional help to avoid bigger headaches.

Related: Sauna Maintenance

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When to Call a Pro

Sometimes, a little DIY cleaning isn’t enough, and it’s smarter to get help from a professional. Here’s when to reach out:

• Electrical problems: If your heater lights flicker, buttons don’t respond, or the sauna won’t turn on, don’t try to fix it yourself. Faulty wiring or damaged infrared panels need expert care to prevent risks.
• Wood damage: Cracks, warping, or deep splits in benches or walls can affect safety and comfort. A pro can assess if repairs or replacements are needed to keep your sauna sturdy.
• Persistent mold: If mold keeps coming back despite thorough cleaning and drying, professionals have treatment options that go beyond home remedies. This helps stop mold for good and protects your health.
• Warranty rules: Some sauna manufacturers require regular professional checks or specific maintenance to keep warranties valid. Skipping these might cost more down the line.

Getting expert help saves you headaches, protects your sauna, and keeps your sessions safe and relaxing. Don’t wait too long—early action keeps small problems from turning into big ones.

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Seasonal & Long-Term Care

Taking care of your infrared sauna throughout the year helps it last longer and work better. Here’s what to focus on during key times:

Spring and Fall Deep Clean

These seasons are perfect for a full, detailed sauna checkup and deep cleaning.

• Start with your usual monthly deep clean to remove any buildup.
• Inspect your heater stones carefully—look for cracks, crumbling, or discoloration.
• Rinse stones with plain water to wash away dust or residue. Avoid using any soaps or cleaning chemicals on stones, as these can damage them or affect heat performance.
• Check all wooden surfaces for any signs of warping, cracking, or mold—deal with problems right away to prevent worsening.
• Clean inside vents and air ducts with a soft brush or vacuum to ensure good airflow.
• Lubricate hinges if needed to prevent squeaks or stiffness.

Off-Season Storage and Care

If you’re not using your sauna for a while—during summer or extended breaks—taking these steps keeps everything in good shape:

• Unplug the sauna completely to save energy and reduce fire risk.
• Leave the door slightly open or ajar to allow air circulation and avoid moisture buildup inside.
• Cover the benches and interior surfaces loosely with a clean cotton or linen sheet to keep dust and pests out.
• Check once a month to ensure no moisture has collected—wipe dry if needed.
• Avoid storing heavy items on benches or floor to prevent dents or warping.

Extra Tips for Longevity

• Keep using your sauna towels regularly—clean towels help protect wood and keep areas dry.
• Use distilled water on heater stones if you sprinkle water to avoid mineral buildup.
• Schedule a professional inspection every 1-2 years if possible, especially for electronics and wiring.

Following these seasonal and long-term care tips helps you enjoy clean, safe infrared sauna sessions for years without surprises or damage.

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Prevention & Best Practices

Good habits can make a huge difference in how clean and safe your sauna stays. Try these simple tips every time:

• Sit on a towel. It traps sweat and oils, keeping wood cleaner and preventing stains.
• Shower and dry off before sauna use. Removing lotions, dirt, and oils helps keep the air and wood fresh.
• Use distilled water on heater stones if your sauna requires stone sprinkling. Tap water leaves mineral deposits that reduce heater efficiency.
• Regularly inspect for wear or damage. Check benches, wood panels, and electronics often so small issues don’t get worse.
• Avoid harsh sprays or heavy perfumes inside the sauna—they can irritate your lungs and linger unpleasantly.

Building these habits saves time on extra cleaning and protects your sauna from costly repairs.

Related: Sauna Safety Guidelines

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here’s what to watch out for so you don’t accidentally cause more work or damage:

• Don’t use bleach, ammonia, or harsh chemicals. They harm wood and heaters and can create toxic fumes.
• Never spray water directly on infrared panels or controls. Moisture can cause shorts or corrosion.
• Always dry surfaces after wiping. Leaving surfaces damp encourages mold and wood warping.
• Don’t skip using towels on benches. Bare skin lets sweat soak into wood, staining and degrading it faster.
• Avoid abrasive scrubbing tools like steel wool or scouring pads—they scratch and wear finishes.
• Don’t delay fixing squeaky hinges, cracked wood, or sticky doors. Early repairs prevent bigger problems.

Steering clear of these mistakes keeps your sauna safe, clean, and enjoyable for years.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

Keeping your infrared sauna clean and well-maintained doesn’t have to be complicated. By following gentle daily routines, deeper weekly and monthly cleanings, and observing simple best practices, you’ll protect your sauna’s wood and electronics.

This not only extends its life but ensures every session is relaxing, healthy, and hassle-free. Remember to always check your sauna’s specific care instructions and don’t hesitate to call a pro when needed. Happy sauna time!

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